Close to 100 ladies and gents dusted off their suits and gowns in support of a noble cause when they attended Child Welfare South Africa Roodepoort (CWSAR)’s first ever charity masquerade ball.
The stunning event, which was held at the Hole in One hotel, was attended by corporate sponsors of the organisation, staff members and their loved ones, and past child welfare children alike.
The chilly evening got under way on a warm note with Estelle Odendaal launching CWSAR’s website, which was proudly designed by Nicky van Niekerk.
The website was designed on the website-design platform Wix, and provides people with a new interactive way of getting involved with the organisation.
Next up was Ward 70 councillor, Caleb Finn, who was the event’s keynote speaker.
Caleb made sure to highlight the importance of child welfare organisations, as they play a vital role in society according to him.
Caleb was followed by the undoubted speaker of the evening, Philiso Ndongeni, who is a product of the CWSAR system.
Philiso entered the CWSAR system at a very young age, where he met his eventual foster mother, Maria Sebole, at the age of five.
It didn’t take long for Maria to fall in love with Philiso, and become his foster mom on 17 May 2005.
Philiso shared his incredible story with the crowd, even singing a song which showed his love and appreciation for Maria and CWSAR.
Philiso’s moving speech was followed by the presentation of two CWSAR awards; the award for best employee and team member for 2017, which went to Maureen Kambarami, and the award for excellence in fundraising in 2017, which went to Estie le Roux.
Shortly after, an auction of some stunning artwork by Petra Langner, Monica Cserei, and 18-year-old Matthew Ecklart, got under way.
The auction managed to raise more than R5 000 for the organisation, which can always do with a bit of help, be it financial, material, or simply food.
The judging for the King and Queen of the ball took place during dinner, with the winners being Inspector Mulambu and Debbie Wright-Louw.
Despite the typically chilly winter Highveld evening, it was a warm occasion that will surely be looked forward to next year.
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